Mayor announces high school renovation

On Wednesday, Mayor David Cicilline and Providence Schools Superintendent Donnie Evans celebrated a ceremonial groundbreaking for the “new” Central High School: A 21st century learning environment. Members of the state’s General Assembly, the Providence City Council, members of the State Board of Regents and the Providence School Board attended the event.

The major reconstruction and renovation effort will modernize the classrooms; put a premium on science and state-of-the-art laboratories;create new computer labs and a media center; and restore the school’s lost theater, turning it into a multi-purpose “gymatorium,” which will serve as both a gymnasium and an auditorium.

“With this ceremonial groundbreaking we are sending a loud, clear message that schools and education are indeed our number one priority,” said Cicilline. “These renovations may only be a beginning, but today we are laying the foundation for Providence’s future.”

For the first time in decades, all essential school activities will take place in one building, reducing security costs and the safety issue of a multi-building structure, the release said. Currently, students must cross the street to go to the cafeteria and the gymnasium. The new design also allows for 9th and 10th grade “teaming,” with grades taking up separate sections of the building. The renovation plan is intended to preserve the architectural integrity of the existing structure and to restore architectural features to their original beauty.

The reconstruction and renovation will be funded by both the state, through school construction aid and the city of Providence, through bond issue funds, The first construction phase is estimated at $13 million with the second phase that includes furniture and technology at $20-23 million. Providence-based Gilbane Building Company is managing the project, which is scheduled to be completed next summer.